IntroductionThough its styling receives only minor changes, the 2015 Dodge Challenger is thoroughly updated with a new interior, new technology, and new engine and transmission upgrades. This large 2-door performance coupe is offered in SXT, R/T, and Scat Pack trim, in escalating levels of power and performance.

Exterior FeaturesDodge says the 2015 Challenger's styling updates are influenced by the 1971 Challenger model. On the outside, that means a new split grille treatment and split LED taillights, along with revised colors, stripes, and wheel designs. The hood is also new, featuring cold-air induction for the Challenger SXT and offering an available "Shaker-style" format for R/T and Scat Pack versions. Modern touches include new LED halo running lights and LED taillights.

Interior FeaturesInside, the flashback to 1971 continues. Dodge calls the cabin driver-focused with a retro-themed "high sill" center console design. New Tic-Toc-Tach gauges surround a standard 7-in. driver information display within the primary instrumentation, and the new dashboard supports the addition of Dodge's Uconnect 8.4 touch-screen technology, a first for the Challenger.Buyers choose from a long list of new interior color treatments, and the seats are available with several different upholsteries, including a new Houndstooth cloth.

Optional FeaturesDodge offers an extensive menu of options for the 2015 Challenger. In addition to safety and technology features discussed in greater detail below, highlights include performance-bolstered front seats, premium leather or leather/Alcantara upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated folding side mirrors, and HID headlights. Additionally, buyers can opt for a power sunroof, premium 18-speaker audio system with 900-watt amplifier, power sunroof, and a variety of paint, stripe, and wheel combinations.

Under the HoodThe 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT is equipped with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine making 305 horsepower and, thanks to a standard cold-air induction hood design, 90% of its 268 lb.-ft. of maximum torque from 1,800 rpm to 6,400 rpm. An 8-speed automatic transmission with a Sport mode is standard, and die-cast zinc paddle shifters are optional. It takes a Challenger SXT less than 6.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, according to Dodge.

The Challenger R/T models have a 5.7-liter "Hemi" V-8 engine making 372 horsepower with the 8-speed automatic and 375 horsepower with the 6-speed manual gearbox. With the automatic, Fuel Saver Technology shuts off half of the engine's cylinders under certain driving conditions in order to conserve fuel. A functional shaker-style hood with cold-air induction is optional. Dodge says the Challenger R/T accelerates to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds.

A 6.4-liter "Hemi" V-8 from the Challenger SRT is installed in the new-for-2015 Challenger Scat Pack model. Cranking 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine gets the Challenger to 60 mph in a claimed 4.5 seconds on the way to what Dodge asserts is a top speed of 182 mph. A manual transmission is standard, with an 8-speed automatic transmission optional. To make best use of the available power, the Challenger Scat Pack models include an active exhaust system, performance brakes, performance suspension, launch control, 3-mode stability control, and 20-in. lightweight forged aluminum wheels wrapped in performance tires.

In other news, all 2015 Challengers feature a new electric steering system with Normal, Comfort, and Sport modes. The Challenger SXT and R/T trim levels can also be upgraded with a Super Track Pak for 2015, which includes a 3.07 axle ratio, lowered performance suspension, steering and braking upgrades, 3-mode stability control, and 20-in. wheels with performance tires.

SafetyDodge adds several safety-related features to the 2015 Challenger. New upgrades include rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-path detection. The 2015 Challenger is also available with 911 Call/Assist technology, which automatically summons rescuers in the event of an air bag deployment.

TechnologyThe Challenger's new 911 Call/Assist feature is a part of a free trial to Uconnect Access services, which also supports voice texting and access to thousands of global radio stations, as well as making it possible to transform the Challenger into a mobile Wi-Fi hot spot. It is a part of the optional Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system, which features an 8.4-in. color touch screen and can be upgraded with new 3-D navigation technology.

Challenger buyers can also get Dodge Performance Pages, viewable on the car's touch screen, on their brand-new retro muscle car, which includes launch-control technology plus the ability to record 0-to-60 acceleration times and track lap times, as well as measure maximum g-forces when taking corners.